Water Filter Buying Guide (UK)
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Start with your goal
- Taste & odour only: jug or tap‑mount carbon filter.
- Limescale: look for ion‑exchange or scale cartridges.
- Broad contaminant reduction: under‑sink carbon block or RO (reverse osmosis).
Types at a glance
- Jug/bench‑top: low cost, frequent cartridge changes.
- Under‑sink carbon block: good flow, multi‑point reduction.
- RO systems: most thorough; needs space, waste line, remineralisation for taste.
- Gravity systems: no plumbing; slow but reliable for chlorine/particulates.
UK specifics
- Most mains water is microbiologically safe; you’re optimising taste, scale and some by‑products.
- Check supplier water reports; decide if RO is warranted or overkill.
Maintenance matters
- Filters work only when replaced on schedule. Mark your calendar.
- Sanitise housings when changing cartridges.
FAQ
Kettle fur? A small in‑line scale filter or jug can dramatically reduce it.